Fire Extinguishing Systems
A fire extinguishing system is an engineered set of components that work together to quickly detect a fire, alert occupants, and extinguish the fire before extensive damage can occur. All system components must be:
- Designed and approved for use on the specific fire hazards they are expected to control or extinguish.
- Protected against corrosion or either made or coated with a non-corrosive material if it may be exposed to a corrosive environment.
- Designed for the climate and temperature extremes to which they will be exposed.
Fixed Extinguishing Systems. Fixed fire extinguishing/suppression systems are commonly used to protect areas containing valuable or critical equipment such as data processing rooms, telecommunication switches, and process control rooms. Their main function is to quickly extinguish a developing fire and alert occupants before extensive damage occurs by filling the protected area with a gas or chemical extinguishing agent.
Portable Extinguishing Systems. Workplace fires and explosions kill hundreds and injure thousands of workers each year. One way to limit the amount of damage due to such fires is to make portable fire extinguishers an important part of your FPP. When used properly, fire extinguishers can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or controlling a fire until additional help arrives.
For more information on fire extinguishing systems and using portable fire extinguishers, see OSHAcademy Course 718, Fire Prevention Plans.
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6-6. What is the main function of fixed fire extinguishing and suppression systems?
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